Minnesota’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Program to be recognized on State Fair Military Appreciation Day
August 26, 2016 (ST. PAUL, Minnesota) — The sixth annual Military Appreciation Day at the Minnesota State Fair presented by USAA on Tuesday, August 30, will recognize Minnesota’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program and provide an educational opportunity for all fairgoers to learn about Minnesota’s military community.
“Veterans, active duty service members, and military families deserve our immense gratitude for their sacrifice and commitment,” said Governor Mark Dayton. “Since 2008, over 290 cities, counties, businesses and non-profits have joined Minnesota’s “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon” program, and are now providing community support and employment assistance to veterans and military families. I thank these organizations for their leadership, and encourage all Minnesotans to thank and support our military heroes.”
A 10:00 a.m. program at the Minnesota State Fair’s Leinie Lodge Bandshell will celebrate Minnesota’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program. The program will conclude at 10:25 a.m. with a historic flyover of World War II-era P6 and B25 aircraft.
“Since the inception of the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program in 2008, companies and communities within Minnesota have shown immense support to their service members,” said Maj. Gen. Rick Nash, Minnesota National Guard Adjutant General.
Minnesota’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program connects service members and their families with support and resources in their local communities.
“As I have traveled around the state I am always amazed at the patriotism, pride and collaboration that goes into forming and sustaining a Yellow Ribbon network,” said Annette Kuyper, Minnesota National Guard Director of Military Outreach. “The individuals at these cities, counties and companies have taken it upon themselves to identify resources in their community to support our military-connected residents and their families.”
Several activities are planned for Military Appreciation Day at the State Fair this year. There will be nearly 50 educational booths located in Expo Place at the corner of Murphy Ave. and Cooper St. Minnesota’s Yellow Ribbon companies will also be highlighting their efforts in Carousel Park, with the Mall of America providing family friendly entertainment throughout the day on the Carousel Park stage.
The Minnesota National Guard’s 34th Infantry Division Red Bull Band will perform at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell at 10:30 and 11:45 where there will be a special announcement for the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division’s upcoming 100th Anniversary celebration.
The State Fair is offering discounted tickets ($8 rate) for military members with documentation at the gate.
For more information on the Military Appreciation Day at the State Fair go to http://www.mnstatefair.org/general_info/visitor_guide/Military-Appreciation-Day.html.
